It’s no secret that the gust of fall air brings with it the end of the summer and the start of the seemingly all-consuming school year. Luckily, New York is filled with activities to help get you into the fall spirit.
Cityside Pumpkin Patch
What better way to kick off the season than attending a locally harvested pumpkin patch? From Oct. 4 -31, this rooftop location allows for a scenic view as you take part in all that the Cityside Pumpkin Patch has to offer.
Upon arrival, general admission tickets start at $15 and visitors have the option to purchase Cityside bucks to buy different experiences ranging from the locally harvested pumpkin patch — with pumpkins from Upstate New York — a pumpkin smashing zone, scarecrow archery and several autumnal treats and cocktails for those over 21. The path is open from 12 p.m.-10 p.m. on weekdays, however, on the weekends the rooftop is open to only those above 21.
Rooftop Reds Vineyards
Rooftop Reds Vineyard is located at the Brooklyn Navy Yard and first opened its doors in 2016 when its creators thought the neighborhood needed a rooftop vineyard.
Their partnership with the Bucketlisters provides visitors with the opportunity for an outdoor dinner and movie.
Before the weather gets too cold, take advantage of the pleasant breezy nights while watching an outdoor movie. General admission starts at $35 per person and the movie start times begin at 7 p.m. from September through October
The slightly steep price point doesn’t just include entry, but two slices of cheese pizza, a glass of tap wine and happy hour before the movie starts for those over 21.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Quoted as autumn’s “answer to a winter wonderland,” this attraction was produced by the Historic Hudson Valley not-for-profit organization.
There are two locations for this perfect fall attraction: Hudson Valley and Long Island.
The Hudson Valley location features the Van Cortlandt Manor, with tickets available for purchase from Sept. 13 through Nov. 17. Visitors can enjoy an illuminated pumpkin trail with thousands of hand-carved Jack O’lanterns. The location also houses a pumpkin planetarium and cafe where visitors can gaze at the stars and enjoy seasonal treats.
The Long Island location is in Old Bethpage Village Restoration and runs from Oct. 4 through Nov. 3. It includes many of the same attractions as the Hudson Valley location, however this year they are including a commemoration of the Day of the Dead with a Jack O’Lantern tribute.
The tickets range from standard admission to Blaze and Tavern Combo tickets with the pricing depending on the location you choose to visit and your ticket selection.
Apple Ridge Orchards
This family-owned farm in Warwick is the furthest destination on this list but makes for a perfect day trip.
A $3 general admission ticket grants you farm access and the choice of picking apples, pumpkins or both. The pumpkin picking opens on Sept. 21.
It costs about $36 to pick half a bushel of apples and about $14 for any pumpkin picked.
Once you stroll through the farm and take in the scenery, take a ride on their old-fashioned hay wagon and see their adorable farm pets — you can even feed them! Then collect as many apples or pumpkins as your heart desires, or that your hands can carry. After you have finished, make your way to their farm stand and enjoy their famous apple cider goodies.
